Dorchester estate agent in 50-mile London trek for charity

Director of Jackson-Stops & Staff Julian Bunkall will take his place among a team of 25 walkers taking on an epic challenge in aid of the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust and the National Osteoporosis Society tomorrow.

The challenge has been organised by local gynaecologist Michael Dooley and around ten of the walkers who will be going for 25 hours non-stop are from Dorset.

Mr Bunkall, who at 61 will be the second oldest of the team, said he was invited to take part by Mr Dooley.

He said: “Michael got together 25 friends and colleagues and said would we all walk for charity.

“So we all said yes without really knowing what it was all about.

“There are about ten local guys and girls doing it so a lot of us have been pounding the roads of Dorset.”

Mr Bunkall added: “It is an event that promises to be both fun and challenging but, most importantly, it is a great way to raise money for charities that can change lives for the better.”

The team set an initial fundraising target of £25,000 but have already smashed that with the total rising to over £40,000 and the walkers are now hoping to hit £50,000 with more donations coming in.

All money raised will be split between the two charities.

The team will set out from The Chelsea Flower Show, with Emmy award-winning actress Susan Hampshire sending them off.

Other high profile supporters of the event include marathon runner Paula Radcliffe.

She said: “Raising awareness of the dangers and problems of osteoporosis is vital and this is such a fun and engaging way to do so. Please support.”

The walk will take in a number of the capitals famous landmarks and the Olympic venues before finishing with a route around London hospitals.

The challenge is being supported by Poundbury-based firm Dorset Cereals, which will be providing cereal bars to help Mr Bunkall and his fellow walkers keep their energy levels up on the way.

Visit the website virginmoneygiving.com/team/London25